A calm sea with a boat anchored near a small island.

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Check prices for these dates

Next weekend
4 Sep - 6 Sep
In two weeks
11 Sep - 13 Sep
In one month
25 Sep - 27 Sep
In two months
23 Oct - 25 Oct

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu hostels

Fridge, microwave, electric kettle, toaster

1. Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu

Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
"Unique,very beautiful, clean and tidy....nice "
Malaysia
Imran
The price is AED 68
AED 83 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu
Living area

2. Signel Hostel

Signel Hostel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (20 reviews)
"Friendly staff and cozy comfy beds - would definitely stay again "
United Kingdom
Richard
The price is AED 55
AED 69 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sep - 24 Sep
Signel Hostel
Cafe

3. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social

TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (13 reviews)
"Enjoyable stay and a great budget property choice. Staff were all helpful, Wi-Fi good, rooms, although snug, more than adequate for sleeping and showering. The one thing that let the property down was the lack of options at breakfast. Everyday a different breakfast meal was given but you had no idea what it would be and didn’t have another option to choose if it wasn’t to your liking. That said, the quality of the food was good. Would happily stay at the property again if looking for somewhere...
United Kingdom
Wayne
The price is AED 202
AED 227 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Sep - 7 Sep
TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social
Reception

4. Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel

Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel
2.0 star property
Ranau
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (33 reviews)
"Very near to Poring Hot Spring Park. The hosts were very helpful and kind."
Singapore
Seok Lan
The price is AED 102
AED 131 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"위치적으로 매우 훌륭합니다. 가야스트릿과 DBKK선착장까지의 접근성이 좋고 주변에 식사가기도 좋고 관광지와의 거리도 매우 좋습니다."
tae seung 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Grandis Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Should I stay in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?
Hostels are a great way to stay for a lower cost, so you can save more for fun things to do. We've heard good things about this destination's natural setting, including its island views and natural parks.
What is a hostel?
These dorm-style accommodations come in quite a few forms, but all of them have three main things in common, including low prices, a social setting, and shared rooms (though many have private options too).
What are the best hostels in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our customers' reviews, these Kota Kinabalu hostels have the best ratings: Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu - Property features include free WiFi and an elevator. You'll find towels, showers, and hair dryers in all rooms. Escape Backpackers KK - Property features include free breakfast, free WiFi, and tour assistance. You'll find towels, showers, and hair dryers in all rooms. Signel Hostel - You can take advantage of free WiFi and a TV in a common area, as well as multilingual staff. Rooms come with towels, showers, and hair dryers. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social - Property features include free WiFi, a restaurant, and a bar. Rooms come with towels, showers, and bed sheets. X-Plorer Backpackers - Hostel - Property features include free WiFi, tour assistance, and a TV in a common area. You'll find towels, showers, and bed sheets in all rooms.
How many hostels can I expect to find in Kota Kinabalu?
If you're in the market for somewhere affordable to stay in Kota Kinabalu, one of Expedia's 16 hostels might be a great option for you.
When is the best time of year to stay in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?
The weather is important when you want to venture out and explore, so here are some stats about the local climate: The hottest months are usually May and June with an average temp of 82°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 80°F. The rainiest months in Kota Kinabalu are January, November, December, and October, with each month seeing an average of 10 inches of rainfall.
What is there to see and do in Kota Kinabalu?
In general, Kota Kinabalu is known for its boating opportunities, snorkeling, and marina. Get out into nature with places like Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, Kota Kinabalu Wetlands Centre, and Sabah Agricultural Park. Cultural attractions include Sabah State Museum and Mari Mari Cultural Village. Locals like to shop at Centre Point and KK Plaza.
What's the best way to get to and around Kota Kinabalu while staying at a hostel?
Keep this information about transit options in and around Kota Kinabalu in your back pocket to make the most of your stay: You can search for flights to the closest airport, which is Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI), located 4 mi (6.5 km) away from the city center. When you're out and about, you may want to make use of public transit. Train stations including Tanjung Aru Station and Putatan Station make it easy to see more of the surrounding area.